Mr Robins, from Clacton, had stepped in to protect a female friend who was set upon by a gang of six men.

He underwent facial surgery on Friday and is now recovering at home.

Mr Robins said: “The surgeon said the operation went very well though I am still very sore, but I go back next week to make sure everything is OK and my eye socket has stayed in place along with the plate on my cheekbone.

“It’s far too soon to think about modelling or football, I have a couple of scars on my face and we will have to see how my face settles once all the swelling has gone down.

“I can’t do any sport, contact or non-contact, or go to the gym for three months so my football season is truly over, but I hope to be able to play next season. I’ll take it one step at a time.

“It feels like I had a lot of potential and promise for good things but now I’m not so sure – it’s a long road to recovery.”

A Colchester man, 19, has been arrested in connection with the attack on Mr Robins and released on police bail while the investigation continues.